Topical treatment and PDT

Stage1:
A sensitising agent is applied to the area of treatment and selectively absorbed into cancer cells.

Stage 2:
After about three hours of incubation time, a special light is put over the treating area to activate the photosensitiser.

This produces a form of oxygen called oxygen radical and kills the cancerous cells.

Benefit of PDT
It is very convenient and studies show it achieves the same results as other topical treatment. PDT also limits damage to healthy skin and doesn’t cause scarring.

Drawbacks of PDT
It can be quite painful during the light stage. Redness and scaliness are very common post treatment. There are many ways to minimise the side effects and you will be advised about these.

Unexpected side effect
PDT can improve the photo aging skin by increasing collagen synthesis.

Follow up
Close follow up in the first week of treatment.

Your doctor will check the treated area in about 3 months to make sure there is no signs of skin cancers.